Leaning on the Fence

I was thrilled to have my quilt selected as one of the finalists in the New Quilts from an Old Favorite competition. But it was a bittersweet moment when I packed it up to be sent in. I would not see it again for two years since the quilts travel from venue to venue during that time.

So my quilt started its travel by way of Paducah, KY. After final judging, "Leaning on the Fence" was awarded third place. If you are in Paducah for the quilt show, stop and say "hi" to my quilt and reassure it that I am anxiously awaiting its return and the stories of its adventures.

Isn't it wild when your quilts travel to more places than you do!

Leaning on the Fence

Last September, I relaxed and had fun hand piecing a sunflower block. Cotton batik fabrics were used for the flower and a linen fabric was used at the background sections. As you can see, the block made its way into a quilt where it was machine quilted and hand beaded. It was joined by several other sunflower blocks.

At that time, I had no idea that I would later finish this quilt and enter it in the New Quilts from Old Favorites - Sunflower competition sponsored by the National Quilt Museum in Paducah, KY.

Collaboration Quilts

Off the subject of scrap quilts -- or is it??

Have you ever worked on a quilt with another quilt artist? My good friend, quilting teacher Chris Lynn Kirsch, and I have worked on several quilts together. We've found it to be a very rewarding experience and pushed us past what we could have accomplished alone. This quilt "Goyne Round in Circles" is now traveling with the New Quilts from an Old Favorite contest sponsored by the National Quilt Museum (AQS) in Paducah, KY.

Because we live several hours apart, Chris and I sent the quilt back and forth as it progressed. Chris created the center based on the traditional block - Burgoyne Surrounded. I loved the use of circles and the fabulous hand-dyed background. I added the border using multiple fabrics in blue and yellow/orange. Mmmm, this brings to mind 'scraps', doesn't it? Just can't get away from them and the punch they bring to a quilt.

We both shared in the machine quilting and were so pleased with the results. If you have not tried working with another quilter, I definitely recommend it. Not only will you be stretched to try new ideas but you will be blessed with a wonderful friendship.